Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore 17 03

Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 03) Comprehensive Maintenance and Repair Guide

The Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 03) is a specialized variant of the classic Swedish round reel, engineered specifically to withstand the corrosive demands of brackish and saltwater environments. The "17 03" designation identifies a specific architectural build that emphasizes salt-resistant components and a high-torque drive system. Because inshore fishing subjects a reel to salt spray and fine grit, a meticulous service routine is required to keep its stainless steel bearings and synchronized levelwind in peak condition.

Step 1: Breakdown and Corrosion Inspection

Begin the service by removing the handle side plate to access the internal drive assembly. In an inshore model, checking for "salt creep" is the priority.

• The Drive Train: Pull the main gear and the drag stack. Inspect the interface between the gear and the drive shaft for any signs of galvanic corrosion.

• The Levelwind System: Disassemble the worm gear from its shroud. Because this reel features a synchronized levelwind, any salt buildup in the worm gear grooves will drastically reduce casting distance and increase wear on the pawl.

• The Spool Assembly: Remove the spool and inspect the centrifugal braking weights. Ensure the brake race (the metal ring inside the side plate) is clean and free of oxidation.

Step 2: Advanced Degreasing

Saltwater reels require a more aggressive cleaning approach. Use a high-quality solvent to strip all old, contaminated lubricants. Pay particular attention to the idler gears—the small gears that bridge the spool to the levelwind. These plastic components often trap salt crystals between their teeth. A clean, residue-free surface is necessary before applying high-performance lubricants.

Step 3: Targeted Lubrication with Deuthlon

For the 5501 Inshore, we recommend the Deuthlon line of lubricants. Their formulas are specifically designed to repel moisture and resist the "washout" common in coastal fishing.

Levelwind and Idler Gears (Precision Oiling)

The synchronized nature of this reel means the levelwind must be incredibly fast and friction-free.

• Levelwind Worm Gear: Apply Deuthlon Reel Oil to the worm gear. This oil provides a hydrophobic barrier that prevents salt from bonding to the metal, ensuring the line guide oscillates smoothly during the cast.

• Idler Gears: These gears should be lubricated with Deuthlon Reel Oil. This keeps the startup inertia low, allowing you to throw lighter inshore lures with greater accuracy and distance compared to using heavy grease.

Main and Pinion Gears (Heavy-Duty Greasing)

The gears responsible for hauling power need a robust, tacky lubricant that stays on the teeth.

• Main and Pinion Gears: Use a brush to apply an even coat of Deuthlon Reel Grease to the main gear and the pinion. This grease provides a "cushion" between the gear teeth, preventing the "grinding" feel that often develops after heavy use in saltwater.

• Clutch Mechanism: Apply a light layer of grease to the yoke and the kick lever to ensure the thumb bar returns to the engaged position reliably, even after repeated exposure to the elements.

Performance Service Table

Step 4: Reassembly and Calibration

Reassemble the Ambassadeur 5501 Inshore (17 03), ensuring that all shim washers are returned to their original positions. When closing the side plate, make sure the pinion gear is correctly engaged with the spool's drive pins. Once the reel is back together, turn the handle several times to distribute the Deuthlon Reel Grease across the gear faces. By using Deuthlon Reel Oil on the levelwind and idler gears, you have optimized this reel to fight the corrosive nature of the salt while maintaining the legendary smoothness of a Swedish Ambassadeur.